SMSL DAC MINI ES9039Q2M Desktop DAC - Optical/Coaxial PCM768

SMSL DAC MINI ES9039Q2M Desktop DAC

Flagship ESS Sabre DAC technology meets ultra-compact design—experience reference-grade digital-to-analog conversion with exceptional versatility.

The SMSL DAC MINI is a high-performance desktop DAC featuring the flagship ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip, delivering reference-grade audio conversion with ultra-low distortion and exceptional dynamic range in an ultra-compact form factor. Designed for audiophiles and audio professionals who demand uncompromising sound quality without sacrificing desk space, the DAC MINI offers comprehensive connectivity including optical and coaxial digital inputs, plus both RCA and headphone outputs for maximum flexibility. With support for PCM up to 768kHz/32-bit and DSD256, premium metal construction optimized for iOS and macOS, and SMSL's proven engineering excellence, the DAC MINI transforms any digital source into pristine analog audio that reveals every detail in your music.

Key Features

• ESS ES9039Q2M Flagship DAC Chip: Premium ESS Sabre DAC delivers exceptional audio performance with ultra-low THD+N, wide dynamic range (>120dB), and pristine signal conversion. This flagship chip ensures your music is reproduced with reference-grade accuracy and detail.
• Ultra-High Resolution Support: Handles PCM audio up to 768kHz/32-bit and native DSD256 (11.2896MHz), ensuring full compatibility with the highest-resolution audio formats available—far exceeding CD quality.
• Dual Digital Inputs: Both optical (TOSLINK) and coaxial (SPDIF) inputs ensure compatibility with virtually any digital source—from computers and streamers to CD players and TVs. Automatic input detection for seamless switching.
• iOS and macOS Optimization: Deeply optimized for Apple devices with plug-and-play USB connectivity. Works flawlessly with iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers without drivers or configuration.
• Dual Output Options: Both RCA line outputs for connecting to amplifiers/powered speakers and a dedicated headphone output with independent volume control allow flexible connection to any audio system.
• Ultra-Compact Metal Construction: Tiny footprint saves precious desk space while the solid metal chassis provides excellent electromagnetic shielding, superior heat dissipation, and long-lasting durability.
• Clean Power Design: Advanced power supply and circuit design minimize noise and interference, ensuring the cleanest possible signal path from digital input to analog output.
• Plug-and-Play Convenience: USB-powered design requires no external power adapter. Simply connect via USB and start enjoying high-resolution audio immediately.

Technical Specifications

What's in the Box

• SMSL DAC MINI Desktop DAC (1 Unit)
• USB Type-C Cable (1 Piece)
• User Manual (1 Copy)
• Warranty Card (1 Copy)

Sound Performance & Quality

The SMSL DAC MINI delivers reference-grade audio performance that reveals every nuance in your music:

• Exceptional Clarity: The ES9039Q2M DAC chip provides ultra-low distortion (< 0.0003% THD+N) and wide dynamic range (> 120dB), ensuring your music is reproduced with pristine clarity and zero coloration.
• Natural Tonality: Advanced digital filtering and precision analog output stages deliver natural, musical sound that's faithful to the original recording—no harshness, no artificial enhancement.
• Detail Retrieval: The flagship ESS Sabre architecture reveals micro-details and subtle textures that lesser DACs miss, from the decay of acoustic instruments to the ambience of recording spaces.
• Black Background: Superior power supply design and circuit layout eliminate noise and interference, creating a perfectly silent background that allows even the quietest musical passages to emerge with clarity.
• Headphone Performance: Dedicated headphone amplifier with low output impedance (< 1Ω) drives sensitive IEMs and headphones with authority and control, delivering 100mW of clean power at 32Ω.

ESS ES9039Q2M DAC Chip Advantages

The ES9039Q2M represents ESS Technology's flagship DAC architecture:

• HyperStream II Architecture: Advanced modulator design delivers industry-leading dynamic range and ultra-low distortion across the entire audio spectrum.
• Time Domain Jitter Eliminator: Proprietary jitter reduction technology ensures perfect timing accuracy, eliminating digital artifacts and improving soundstage precision.
• 32-bit Processing: Internal 32-bit processing maintains signal integrity throughout the conversion process, preserving every bit of musical information.
• Proven Performance: The ES9039Q2M is trusted by professional studios and audiophile manufacturers worldwide for its exceptional transparency and accuracy.

iOS and macOS Optimization

The DAC MINI is deeply optimized for Apple's ecosystem:

• Plug-and-Play Simplicity: Connect to iPhone, iPad, or Mac via USB-C and start enjoying high-resolution audio immediately—no drivers, no configuration, no hassle.
• Native DSD Support: Unlike many USB DACs, the DAC MINI supports native DSD playback on macOS without requiring third-party software or DoP conversion.
• Low Latency: Optimized USB implementation ensures minimal latency for video playback and gaming on Apple devices.
• Power Efficiency: Intelligent power management works seamlessly with macOS and iOS power-saving features.
• Universal Compatibility: While optimized for Apple, the DAC MINI works flawlessly with Windows, Linux, and Android devices as well.

Connectivity & Integration

The DAC MINI offers versatile connectivity for any audio system:

• USB Type-C Input: Modern USB-C connection for computers, smartphones, and tablets. Supports all PCM and DSD formats up to the DAC's maximum specifications. USB bus-powered for ultimate portability.
• Optical Input (TOSLINK): Perfect for connecting TVs, game consoles, CD players, and computers. Provides electrical isolation to eliminate ground loop noise.
• Coaxial Input (SPDIF): High-quality digital connection for audiophile sources and CD transports. Supports all PCM and DSD formats.
• RCA Line Outputs: Standard unbalanced outputs (2.0Vrms) for connecting to integrated amplifiers, preamps, and powered speakers.
• Headphone Output: Dedicated 3.5mm headphone output with independent volume control. Low output impedance (< 1Ω) ensures compatibility with sensitive IEMs and headphones.

Ideal Use Cases

• Desktop Audio Systems: Ultra-compact size and comprehensive connectivity make the DAC MINI perfect for desktop setups with active monitors or headphone amplifiers.
• Mac/iOS Audio Upgrade: Transform your MacBook, iMac, iPhone, or iPad into a high-resolution audio source with plug-and-play simplicity.
• TV Audio Enhancement: Connect via optical input to dramatically improve TV audio quality for movies, shows, and gaming.
• Portable Hi-Res Audio: USB bus-powered design allows portable use with laptops and tablets—take reference-grade audio anywhere.
• Multi-Source Systems: Three digital inputs allow easy switching between multiple sources without cable swapping.

Why Choose SMSL DAC MINI?

The DAC MINI represents exceptional value for audiophiles and professionals seeking reference-grade DAC performance:

• Flagship DAC Technology: ES9039Q2M chip delivers performance that rivals DACs costing significantly more, with measurements that satisfy even the most demanding audiophiles.
• Ultra-Compact Design: Tiny footprint fits anywhere while delivering full-size performance. Perfect for minimalist setups and space-constrained environments.
• Apple Ecosystem Integration: Deeply optimized for iOS and macOS with plug-and-play convenience and native DSD support—rare at this price point.
• SMSL's Proven Expertise: Benefit from SMSL's reputation for exceptional engineering, build quality, and value in the audio community.
• Versatile Connectivity: Three digital inputs, line outputs, and headphone output ensure compatibility with any audio system configuration.
• Outstanding Value: Reference-grade performance, ultra-high-resolution support, and premium build quality at an accessible price point.

Setup Recommendations

• Cable Quality: Use quality digital cables (optical or coaxial) to ensure optimal signal transmission. For USB, use the included cable or a quality USB-C cable.
• Power Considerations: For best performance, connect USB to a quality USB power source or computer USB port. Avoid low-quality USB chargers or hubs.
• Placement: Position the DAC MINI away from sources of electromagnetic interference (routers, power supplies, etc.) for cleanest performance.
• Break-In Period: Allow 50-100 hours of playback for the analog output stages to fully settle and deliver optimal performance.
• Input Selection: Use the front panel input selector to switch between USB, optical, and coaxial sources. The DAC MINI automatically detects and locks to the incoming sample rate.
• Headphone Use: Adjust headphone volume using the dedicated volume knob. Start at low volume and increase gradually to protect your hearing and headphones.